Abstract: A paneling system for external building walls includes: panels; bottom and top panel adapters attached to the panels with anchor plates; sill, head and wall girts; top and bottom panel shelves; and panel alignment mechanisms. The top panel shelves are configured for complimentary engagement with the top panel adapter and with the head and wall girts; and the bottom panel shelves are configured for complimentary engagement with the bottom panel adapters and with the sill and wall girts. A method for installing the paneling system includes attaching the sill, head wall girts to the wall; attaching the top and bottom panel shelves to the corresponding head girt, sill girt or wall girt; attaching the top and bottom panel adapters to each panel; attaching top panel adapters to the top panel shelves; attaching the bottom panel adapters to the bottom panel shelves; and aligning the panel using the adjustment mechanism.